2023 Best Test Optional Colleges in South Carolina

• Clemson, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  3,464 reviews

Alum: My blood will forever run orange! Clemson is an excellent state school located in Clemson, SC. I had the pleasure of attending Clemson from 2018-2021 and received a degree in biochemistry. The academics at Clemson are outstanding, know that if you end up attending Clemson you will be challenged. The outstanding academics at Clemson are well-known, future employers will take note of you when you say you graduated from Clemson. I only have positive things to say about the professors I had while at Clemson; all were professional, intelligent, and really cared about helping the students succeed. I still keep up with some of my professors to this day! Something else that Clemson is known for is football! Clemson was the 2016 and 2018 national champion, so I was lucky enough to be a student when we won! School spirit at Clemson is intense, both students and alumni rally 100% behind their tigers. Game days in Death Valley bring thousands of people to the Clemson area.... Read 3,464 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 62%

• Net price $22,935

• SAT range 1210-1390

• Columbia, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  4,451 reviews

Freshman: So many free things for students to do pretty much every single day. Many useful resources from peer writing to the student success center and the Learning living communities. Many affordable off campus living and things to do outside of campus in the local area. 2 gyms for free access to all students. Chain restaurants like Chick-fil-a and Panera Bread are included in your meal plan. There are dining halls all over campus, so it's never a far walk to get something to eat. ALL SPORTING EVENTS ARE FREE to all students! including football games and basketball games. On campus doctors' offices for mental health, women's health and a pharmacy. 'Thursday After Dark' is a student-led weekly activity calendar for free and fun experiences off campus, including drive-in movies, bowling, tours of local museums and other things the city.... Read 4,451 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $21,784

• SAT range 1140-1340

• Greenville, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  593 reviews

Freshman: Within the first two weeks of my college experience, Furman University truly became my home! Its community, I believe, is what sets it apart from all the other colleges I had been considering. Whenever I am surrounded by my fellow students, friends, professors, or staff members, I always feel loved, welcomed, and heard. I feel that Furman exceeds in the following categories: academics, campus life/scenery, professors, and student life. There are so many incredible things to do on campus and in class each day. I love feeling engaged and partaking in activities that I know are rewarding and helping my community in some capacity. I feel that the academic and social value of Furman University cannot be matched by any other school! Go Dins!... Read 593 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $37,761

• SAT range 1230-1400

• Columbia, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  234 reviews

Junior: My experience at Columbia International University has been a great one! Going into CIU, I underestimated the community that is here. There have been many opportunities for the students to be plugged into student life, residence life, and even the community around Columbia as well. The best experience that I've had at CIU has been with the professors. The majority of the professors have been working at CIU for many years now so they understand how to equip you for what you are wanting to pursue as a career. I would recommend CIU to those who are looking for a tight-knit community that is going to be centered around the Word of God.... Read 234 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 51%

• Net price $18,651

• SAT range 940-1150

• Spartanburg, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  371 reviews

Freshman: So far I am loving Wofford! One of my favorite qualities about the school is its southern charm. Everyone here is super friendly and easy to talk to. Since the school only has around 2k students, everyone knows or has at least heard of everyone making campus really feel like a community. The activities offered on campus this year have been really fun while also maintaining covid guidelines. Some of these include: free food truck Friday, ice skating and hot chocolate, trivia nights, and scavenger hunts. If there is one thing I could change about Wofford it would be the food options. Right now during covid they aren't offering a wide variety of food and often slack on providing fruit that isn't an apple or banana.... Read 371 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $30,431

• SAT range 1190-1350

• Charleston, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  411 reviews

Junior: The teachers actually care about the success and wellbeing of their students. The school strives to accommodate the various lifestyles of their students while providing safe and disciplined environment. Being in the political science field, the teachers are very good at remaining neutral on viewpoints and presenting all angles.... Read 411 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $17,920

• SAT range 1030-1210

• Charleston, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  2,243 reviews

Junior: CofC is, for the most part, a wonderful college with beautiful surroundings and a social, engaged community. The professors care for their students and do not hesitate to let their students know it is okay to reach out for assistance, or to take break if they truly require it. Teaching attitudes largely vary by department; I am more experienced in theatre courses, and while some profs often have out-there or rather disconcerting teaching methods, most are very passionate about their craft and seek to give their students the same experience. Student resources are readily available on the College's website, and extracurricular activities are often promoted and invite students to get involved regardless of experience. The administration is very approachable when seeking counsel or reporting any issues, and always take time to have a thorough exchange with any concerned students or parents.... Read 2,243 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $20,351

• SAT range 1070-1240

• Anderson, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  963 reviews

Senior: I have LOVED being a student at Anderson University. I am a Senior and dread graduating and leaving this beautiful, life-giving community. I feel so supported by my professors at all times, as some have become my life guides, mentors, and second family. The intentionality and attention given to students across so many departments - Psychology, Health sciences, Marketing, Spanish - speaks to the character of our faculty. One of my favorite aspects is living on campus - I feel safe and connected on campus, while having my own space to live with my best friends, a little ways from the university. With that comes eating on campus daily, which I still enjoy, something not many college seniors in other places are able to say. There is so much variety in our cafeteria, plus we now have a taco truck, which is one of my new favorites! Come see for yourself - you will be treated as honored guests in just a 3 hour visit.... Read 963 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $21,576

• SAT range 860-1210

• Spartanburg, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,009 reviews

Sophomore: The school's scenery is outstanding. I love the faculty; everyone is determined to help students succeed. There are many resources for attending students and they're very helpful to say the least. Student involvement is a huge part of the university; there are so many organizations and clubs to choose from. This is such a diverse school, and the party scene is outstanding; sport games are always hype and fun. Upstate is such a wonderful university and I am excited to continue my education here!... Read 1,009 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $15,074

• SAT range 900-1090

• Central, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  254 reviews

Junior: I attended years ago (in the 1980s), and I loved it then. Since then, it has expanded immensely and is 10x better than before! I love the options such as the online program, because if the flexibility with family and work. The student to teacher ratio is excellent, and the professors truly care about the students. The reason I rated the party scene as poor is that drinking is not part of the campus atmosphere. It is a Christian University. That works great for me, and I find that Christians know how to have good, clean fun and the loving support of one another, without the vices common to most college campuses. But it wouldn't be fore everyone. My desire is to get a quality liberal arts education with a worldview that embraces the timeless truths of the Bible, with God as our Creator and sustainer, and to live out my faith in a way that seeks to benefit all people of the world through my vocation.... Read 254 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $18,614

• SAT range 1050-1100

• Greenwood, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  786 reviews

Graduate Student: Lander was a great experience. There are lots of student life options available to students and the professors are all very friendly and intelligent. The course load is easy but the classes are interesting! I played sports and loved that experience, but thought that the athletic department could have done a better job promoting equality between teams and the facilities offered to them.... Read 786 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $15,541

• SAT range 920-1110

• Rock Hill, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,650 reviews

Sophomore: Having transferred to Winthrop University from Greenville Technical college seemed daunting at first. I quickly toured the campus and was welcomed by an extremely friendly committee determined to help me succeed with my educational goals. The first time I met with my academic advisor, I was excited and felt a warm welcome from him and his sincere desire to help me and see me succeed. The campus is small and historical and that is just perfect for someone like me. If anyone in the Carolinas wants a small little school that is determined to help their students succeed and become productive members of society, I would look no further than Winthrop University!... Read 1,650 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $19,300

• SAT range 940-1150

• Conway, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  2,020 reviews

Sophomore: Coastal Carolina is a overall great school. The staffing good, the professors are helpful. Moving forward at Coastal Carolina has taught me a lot already. I’ve learned independence, i’ve learned that the information that Coastal give you in the beginning is everything you will need while attending. The environment is great, the energy, the sports teams. I love Coastal Carolina and i will be continuing my education at Coastal. Go Chants!... Read 2,020 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $14,716

• SAT range 1020-1180

• Orangeburg, SC•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  102 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at OC Tech so far has been exquisite! Unlike how movies portray college teachers to be, the teachers and staff at OC Tech are the sweetest people you will ever meet! Teachers will do anything they can to make sure you understand the material whether they set up tutoring times or even stay on a particular topic in class until every student understands it. During my time at OC Tech I have had issues which has caused me to be late and also turn in assignments late. But my teachers never once got mad and always did their best to help me out as much as they could. They are very understanding and very helpful. If I could get my degree 100% from here I would but sadly because they are only a 2 year college, I have to transfer. I wish every school was like OC Tech.... Read 102 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,632

• SAT range —

• Sumter, SC•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  78 reviews

Sophomore: Personally, I really enjoyed my experience going to the University of South Carolina. Classes are small in size and professors are very straight forward. Not a bad experience especially as a starter college. Student Union aspect is great, as they tried to keep students engaged with college life. Campus is full of life and there is a good respect with the COVID-19 regulations. They have a great 4-year degree options if you wish to further your education. There are not many downsides to going to the University of South Carolina-Sumter. There are not dorms or housing as this campus operates as more similar to a community college.... Read 78 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $9,949

• SAT range 920-1110

• Charleston, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  832 reviews

Freshman: So far, I have loved my experience at CSU. The best part about my experience is the people I have bonded with. This community of people are comprised of the students and staff. They are respectful, kind, reasonable, and goodwilled. I am also grateful for the Professors at the college. I had one that did not see eye-to-eye, but every other professor has been top notch! Somethings to keep in mind would be the temperature and climate; it is very humid and not always enjoyable. Also, this year they had some issues in keeping up in the financial aid department. A final note for those who are interested would be the Christian element. You do not need to be a Christian to go to CSU (I personally am), but you definitely will be exposed to that life while attending. Overall, I love the college even with some of the issues with fluency in FINAID this year, and I would recommend it to others.... Read 832 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $17,496

• SAT range 990-1170

• Spartanburg, SC•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  325 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience at Spartanburg Community college was excellent. As a freshman, I was very nervous but SCC made it very simple and great place to start at. The professors and students were all very friendly and helpful. I was a student at two campuses and the environment was very welcoming at both. What I really loved was the diversity. Not only with different races and ethnicities, but with the different age groups. I would definitely recommend SCC! It’s a really great place to start!... Read 325 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,023

• SAT range —

• Clinton, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  264 reviews

Senior: I came to Presbyterian College for their Pharmacy Program, they are extremely family/friend oriented and very welcoming. Presbyterian was very welcoming but some what challenging experience. All of the professors are really kind and very close to their students. However they could have some improvements in diversity and student involvement that caters to all students. One problem was diversity, being a biology major their were little to no, students of color present. Maybe one (me) or two, who were mostly women. Other than being a little isolated and the lack of minorities, this school is a really good school. I love that they give numerous opportunities to their students by networking and offering amazing job/internship opportunities. They also have amazing counseling and student academic/aid. They helped me to stay present and determined during my sophomore and junior year. Overall if I ever wanted to go back to obtain another degree I would consider this school!... Read 264 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $21,959

• SAT range 1030-1200

• Florence, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  921 reviews

Junior: I like that Francis Marion is a small comfortable college. My classes are easy to find with a short walking distance. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes! The scenery is beautiful. From the trees, the squirrels, the ponds and the view overall is just amazing and makes you feel at home. Sometimes I like to just walk around campus in mid-afternoon just to relax and view the beautiful scenery. The workload can be a little tough but with handwork and studying, you can make it! The library is huge! There are many private study rooms on the second floor as well as many tables on both the first and second floors. I like that the library stays open late so we can get some last minute studying in. The professors are very helpful, make sure to visit on their office hours for extra help. Francis Marion have many dining options. The food is pretty good. There is a workout gym; it is small and comfortable and is open 6 days a week. You can get a good workout after studying.... Read 921 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $12,380

• SAT range 890-1110

• Bluffton, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  476 reviews

Junior: The University of South Carolina Beaufort is a smaller school in South Carolina, but it is a great fit for me. The main campus is in Bluffton, SC and is around a lot of great places to eat! With the school being smaller than others, you have an opportunity to get to know your professors and create a bond. This can help you a lot academically by having access to a helpful professor. My favorite thing about the campus is that you are only 25 minutes from the beach, so if you had a rough week you can go relax. It is a great school and I would recommend it to anyone!... Read 476 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $16,748

• SAT range 940-1110

• Newberry, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  394 reviews

Freshman: Newberry College strives for excellence! The school is a private college and students love it here. I am a Freshman (uprising sophomore) and I already plan on graduating from this particular school. The Professors here are very understanding and welcoming. The staff and Deans here are also extremely welcoming and respectful. Everyone cares for not only the students, but the students goals. The Professors wants to see the students succeed. I could honestly say, this is one of the best school ratings I could give. If I could rate 6 stars, I will!... Read 394 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $20,205

• SAT range 890-1100

• Conway, SC•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  565 reviews

Sophomore: Horry-Georgetown Technical College is perfect for studying a specific subject you are passionate about pursuing professionally or just gaining your standard academic credits (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, History, etc.) to transfer them to a 4-year university. The academics here are great and the courses are quite flexible in terms of times of day and campus, whether that be in Georgetown, Myrtle Beach, Conway, or online. There is also a decent amount of diversity, and the prices are the best I've seen in the education world. If I could change anything about the college, I would increase student engagement, but Phi Theta Kappa is currently working on a student lounge to promote that! I love that the college president is always willing to listen to students and make adjustments to the college in order to make it a better experience for everyone.... Read 565 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,753

• SAT range —

• Due West, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.2 out of 5  206 reviews

Freshman: Erskine college is a fantastic school with many great professors and a diverse range of students and athletes. It is what it claims to be- a Christian school with small classrooms and personal professors. It’s in a very small town, and it is very quiet. I realize this is not for everyone, but it is exactly what I was looking for. I love it here!... Read 206 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $35,573

• SAT range 920-1100

• Hartsville, SC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.47 out of 5  295 reviews

Junior: I loved the community and how involved they are with their students online and on-campus! Overall, I recommend this university a lot. Especially if you cannot handle the normal setting of classes. Online is perfect!... Read 295 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $16,647

• SAT range 920-1110

• Graniteville, SC•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  193 reviews

Freshman: It’s an amazing and socially interactive environment. All I can say is thus far, I’ve experienced sincere and rewarding learning!... Read 193 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,362

• SAT range —